Fert$mart Chapter 5 - Understanding and managing soil biology

Dairy systems are generally high input and bearing in mind that all nutrient transformations – be they organic manures or inorganic fertilisers – are mediated by soil biology, any negative impact on soil biology may reduce the efficiency of nutrient and carbon cycles. Being aware of the needs of soil organisms will allow the farmer to make more informed decisions with regard to protecting and enhancing soil condition. Find out what soil biology is, what it does, why it is important, what affects it and how to manage this resource to support profitable and sustainable dairying.

This chapter forms part of the Dairy Soils and Fertiliser manual. Find out more at Fert$mart.